EastWest Psyche

Slovenia, at the crossroads of Slavic, Germanic, and Romance cultures, and historically part of numerous states, kingdoms, and empires, identifies culturally as part of Central Europe — and entirely Slovenian, proud of having maintained an unbroken cultural identity throughout such tumultuous history. A member-state of Yugoslavia for much of the 20th century, yet part of … More Slovenia

With 11 official languages, South Africa is surely among the world’s most multi-ethnic societies. Considering its recent history of apartheid or institutionalised racial segregation, including systematic discrimination, land appropriation, and human rights violations, the nation has come far indeed — though most South Africans agree, not nearly far enough. The African National Congress has been … More South Africa

United Arab Emirates, a small island consisting of 7 emirates or sheikdoms, together a federal constitutional monarchy with its 7 emirs or sheikhs as federal council and a president and prime minister elected from among them. Officially an Islamic nation, the country provides for religious tolerance — as it must: UAE population, at 9.5 million, … More United Arab Emirates

Serbia conjures many and widely varied images. A Slavic culture since 6th century CE, secular state with guarantee of religious freedom — though 85% Serbian Orthodox, and a population of 7 million that is 83% Serbian, this relatively monocultural country has a long history — and a tumultuous modern era. In addition to its Slavic … More Serbia

Malaysia is a federal constitutional monarchy of 30 million people — multi-ethnic and multicultural, a key factor in guiding policy. The country has an array of historical cultural influences: once the Malay kingdom, successively colonised by the Portuguese (450 years), the Dutch (130 years), and the British Empire (130 years — minus 4 years of … More Malaysia